NHL Weekend Rumors: Maple Leafs, Canucks, Oilers, and Coaching Moves

In today’s NHL weekend rumors report, the Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating how to begin their search for a new GM, while coaches are being hired and fired on the regular. There is uncertainty around Auston Matthews, Brady Tkachuk remains in the hot seat, and trade chatter isn’t simmering down even with the deadline well past and the playoffs approaching.

Two big changes behind the bench essentially mean anything, and everything is on the table as NHL teams play out their remaining games.

Maple Leafs Facing Big Decisions On and Off the Ice

The Maple Leafs continue to dominate the rumor mill, with multiple storylines emerging around both roster construction and front office changes. Speculation surrounding Auston Matthews persists, with insiders suggesting teams like San Jose and Utah could be worth watching if things between the Leafs and the center go sideways.

The expectation is that Toronto will pitch the idea of a “reset” rather than a rebuild, hoping he’ll be on board. William Nylander has already said he wants to stay if the team isn’t going through a full rebuild. Will Matthews feel the same way?

Meanwhile, names like Matthew Knies and Morgan Rielly have surfaced in trade chatter, with league executives still viewing Rielly as a player who could thrive in a different situation.

Off the ice, Toronto’s search for either a GM or President of Hockey Ops will begin as soon as the team chooses a hiring firm to assist in the interviews. Candidates vary, including but not limited to Chris Pronger, Doug Armstrong, John Chayka, Brandon Pridman, Mike Gillis, and others.

Canucks Stability Likely Despite Ongoing Speculation

In Vancouver, despite growing chatter about sweeping organizational changes, most signs point to both Patrik Allvin and Jim Rutherford staying on. Even as questions linger about the franchise’s long-term direction, it looks like these two will be behind the changes.

There has been discussion about whether Rutherford could eventually step away, but it’s not expected to be anytime soon.

Coaching Carousel and Islanders Tension

Coaching speculation is picking up steam across the league, with several intriguing situations developing. Bruce Cassidy is expected to have multiple options now that he’s available. Pete DeBoer is off the market now, having gone to the New York Islanders. The John Tortorella bump has worked in Vegas, where the Golden Knights have won since his arrival.

As for why Patrick Roy was fired, there are reports surfacing that some players felt uneasy in the current environment, and GM Mathieu Darche was worried the club was falling out of a playoff spot. The hope is that DeBoer can push all the right buttons.

There was also talk that Nashville asked if they could speak to Eric Tulsky about their GM opening and the Carolina Hurricanes said no.

Trade Buzz Builds Around Kyrou, Tkachuk, and More

Trade speculation is also intensifying, with Jordan Kyrou emerging as one of the most likely big names to move this offseason.

In Ottawa, comments from Brady Tkachuk have sparked concern about the team’s direction, with some insiders wondering whether his questionable decisions and his father’s comments (Keith Tkachuk) will lead to unrest in the locker room and an eventual trade.

Edmonton Oilers to Sign TJ Hughes?

The Edmonton Oilers signed Owen Michaels to a short-term deal this past week. There is also talk that they’re going after TJ Hughes.

Hughes has emerged as one of the most sought-after college free agents, with as many as 10 or more teams trying to sign him. The Oilers, Maple Leafs, and Canadiens are believed to be frontrunners.

Next: Trade Talk Swirls, But Leafs Should Hold Firm on Matthew Knies